New Memphis Grizzlies draftee Cedric Coward got honest about Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.
The 2025 NBA Draft had plenty of unexpected trades outside of the top ten, including a huge deal by the Memphis Grizzlies to add a high-level rookie.
After trading away Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, the Grizzlies were expected to find his replacement in Wednesday’s draft at pick 16, but they did not want to wait that long. The Grizzlies made a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers to acquire pick 11 and select Cedric Coward out of Washington State.
Coward, 21, played just six games in his lone season at Washington State, but impressed in his limited opportunity before his year was cut short with an injury. In those six games, Coward averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game with 55.7/40.0/83.9 shooting splits.
The 6-foot-5 guard is an impressive three-point shooter, and with a 7-foot-2 wingspan and high-level athleticism, he could be an above-average defender at the next level.
After getting drafted by the Grizzlies, Coward was asked about playing alongside Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., and had high praise for the star duo.
“They’re one of the best duos in the league,” Coward said.
Coward also revealed what he is bringing to the table after getting selected by the Grizzlies, per Memphis Commercial Appeal’s Damichael Cole.
“The first thing I’m bringing to the table is a winning attitude and winning mentality,” Coward said. “A guy that is going to get after it each and every day. I’m going to enjoy the process. I’m going to enjoy the love and understand that, I need to do what I need to do to get on the court and earn the rotation minutes. At the end of the day, nothing has ever been given to me, and I don’t expect that.”
Grizzlies’ No. 11 Pick Cedric Coward Reveals the 1 NBA Player He Can’t Wait To Face During His Rookie Year
Memphis Grizzlies’ fans witnessed one of the most improbable draft stories unfold on Day 1 of the 2025 NBA Draft. The franchise traded two first-round and two second-round picks to the Portland Trail Blazers and selected Cedric Coward with the 11th overall pick.
The 6’6″ swingman’s journey from Division III to mid‐major standout to Washington State star and now an NBA first‐rounder has captivated league observers. Clad in a sleek black-navy suit, Coward exchanged handshakes with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver amid a swirl of confetti, embodying the underdog spirit that has become his trademark.
After the big moment, he made way for his first NBA press availability. When asked which superstar he most looked forward to testing in his rookie season, he didn’t hesitate.
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Grizzlies Rookie Cedric Coward Eager To Challenge LeBron James
“LeBron [James], for sure,” Coward declared. “LeBron is the GOAT, so to be able to play against him is surreal. But at the same time, it’s a competition, so you’ve got to prove why you’re in the league just like him.”
His remark stood out, signaling that the Grizzlies’ rookie is aiming to test his skills against the very best.
After being announced as the No. 11 pick, Coward wasted no time assessing his role in Memphis during the NBA Draft media session. “They just lost one of the best players in the game in Desmond Bane, who brought shooting and defense and a lot of that grit and toughness,” he noted.
“For me, I think I fit that mold just fine, bringing shooting, versatility, toughness, and a defensive mindset first. Being able to impact winning and impact that culture in a positive way,” Coward added.
The 21-year-old guard began at Division III in Willamette University in Salem, Ore., where he exploded as a freshman. He averaged 19.4 points and 12.0 rebounds per game en route to Northwest Conference Freshman of the Year and first-team All-Northwest honors.
That breakout campaign earned him a step up to Eastern Washington University. He refined his offensive versatility and defensive instincts there for over two seasons.
As a junior, Coward averaged 15.4 points and 6.7 rebounds on an efficient 56.5% shooting clip (2023-24) and was named to the All-Big Sky First Team.
In May 2024, Coward transferred once more — this time to Washington State. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury halted his season after just six games. However, before being sidelined, he led the Cougars with 17.7 points and seven rebounds per contest at the time.
At the NBA Draft Combine, Coward’s rare physical profile drew widespread attention. His 7-foot-2 wingspan, shooting mechanics, and agility showcased his readiness for the pro game. The Grizzlies, in particular, were taken by his toughness and versatility, traits that mirror the outgoing Bane’s two-way impact.
Coward will get early opportunities to test himself not only against “King James” but also stars such as Stephen Curry, Luka Dončić, Devin Booker, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Kawhi Leonard, which means that fans and league experts get to watch a rookie campaign laden with enticing matchups.